Buffy the Vampire Slayer: "Innocence"

Outside Angel's Apartment - An Alley

The rain poured steadily, drenching the empty alley in a cold, relentless downpour. Angel knelt in the shadows, his body racked with intense pain. Lightning flashed, illuminating his face twisted in agony.

"Buffy..." he gasped, a terrible realization dawning across his expression. "Oh, no…"

A figure emerged hesitantly from the far end of the alley—a woman dressed in shabby clothes, a cigarette dangling from her fingers. She took a tentative step toward him, her gaze cautious.

"Hey, are you okay?" she called, her voice filled with uncertainty.

Angel remained hunched, his back to her, breathing heavily. Slowly, he rose to his feet, the rain tracing lines down his face as he steadied himself.

The woman took a nervous drag from her cigarette. "You want me to call 911?"

The pain that had gripped Angel seemed to dissolve, leaving a cold, empty calm. He straightened, rolling his shoulders as if testing his newfound relief. "No," he said, his voice low and chilling. "The pain... is gone."

"You're sure?" she asked, a hint of skepticism in her voice as she looked at him, studying his strange stillness.

He spun to face her, his eyes flashing, his face transformed with the ridges and fangs of a vampire. Before she could react, he seized her, sinking his fangs deep into her throat. She froze, gasping in shock as her life drained away, her cigarette slipping from her fingers to be lost in the wet street.

Angel let her lifeless body fall, a smile spreading slowly across his lips as he exhaled a thin trail of smoke from the cigarette she had just inhaled. His eyes glinted with dark satisfaction as he whispered, "I feel just fine."

The Summers' Residence - The Kitchen

Buffy slipped quietly through the back door into the kitchen, her movements careful and hesitant. Her clothes were dry now but still wrinkled, and a faint tiredness lingered in her eyes. She paused, listening for any sign of her mom, scanning the quiet house. Sensing the coast was clear, she tiptoed through the dining room and started up the stairs, aiming for the sanctuary of her room.

Halfway up, Joyce's voice called out from the living room, startling Buffy.

"Good morning."

Buffy stopped in her tracks, then turned around, forcing a casual smile as she descended the stairs to face her mother. "Good morning…" She waited, watching her mom's face for any hint of suspicion.

"Did you have fun last night?" Joyce asked.

"Fun?" Buffy echoed.

"At Willow's."

Buffy quickly added, "Oh. Right. Always fun at Willow's. She's a fun machine."

Joyce raised an eyebrow, not entirely convinced but willing to let it go. "You hungry?"

Buffy shook her head. "Not really. I ate a little. I'm just gonna take a shower."

"Well, hurry up, and I'll drive you to school," Joyce offered with a smile.

Buffy managed a grateful nod. "Thanks."

As they stood near the stairs, Buffy absently reached out, plucking a stray piece of fluff from Joyce's shoulder. Joyce regarded her daughter for a moment, her eyes softening.

"Is something wrong?"

"No," Buffy answered, a little too quickly. "What would be wrong?"

Joyce tilted her head, studying her daughter thoughtfully before letting it drop. "I don't know," she replied. "You just look…"

She trailed off with a shrug and turned, heading into the kitchen. Buffy watched her mother disappear, exhaling slowly before she turned and climbed the stairs, her steps slower this time, the weight of the morning settling on her.

Sunnydale High - The Library

Xander and Brenwyn strolled into the Sunnydale High library, their faces bright with unusual cheerfulness. The rest of the gang—Willow, Cordelia, Giles, and Jenny—were already gathered around a table, looking up as they entered.

"Well, the bus station was a total washout," Xander announced with mock enthusiasm, leaning casually against the table. "And may I say, what a fine place to spend the morning? A vibrant cross-section of Americana."

Giles, who had been skimming through a thick tome, looked up. "You saw no vampires transporting boxes?"

Brenwyn scrunched her nose, shrugging. "Nope, but a sweaty old man did offer to wash my hair..." She noticed their tense expressions and faltered. "What's up? Where's Buffy?"

Willow's expression was tight with worry. "She never checked in."

"Neither did Angel," Jenny added grimly, glancing around the room.

Giles sighed, setting his book aside. "If the bus station was as empty as the docks and the airport…"

Xander's face grew serious, the worry breaking through his earlier humor. "You think this Judge guy might already be assembled?"

Giles nodded solemnly, the reality of their situation settling heavily over them.

Brenwyn's eyes widened. "Then Buffy could…"

Xander pushed off the table, determination flashing in his eyes. "We gotta find them! We have to go to that factory. That's where they're holed up, right? Let's go!"

Cordelia crossed her arms, an incredulous look on her face. "And do what? Besides be afraid and die."

Xander shot her an exasperated glare. "Nobody's asking you to go, Cordy. If the vampires need grooming tips, we'll give you a call."

Cordelia bristled at his words, her cheeks flushing as she returned his glare.

Giles raised a hand, hoping to keep the group calm. "Cordelia has a point. If Buffy and Angel were... harmed, we don't stand to fare much better."

Xander's jaw clenched. "Yeah, well, those of us born with feelings are gonna do something about this."

Jenny touched his arm gently, trying to ground his emotions. "Xander…"

Willow jumped up, standing by Xander and Brenwyn with a fierce determination lighting up her face. "No, Xander's right. My God, you people are all..." She paused, searching for a fitting insult, but her indignation seemed to render her at a loss. "Well, I'm upset and can't think of a mean word right now, but that's what you are, and we're going to the factory!"

Just as they turned to head out, Buffy appeared in the doorway, looking disheveled and weary but unharmed.

"Buffy!" Willow exclaimed, relief flooding her face.

Xander grinned, his tone wry. "We were just going to rescue you."

Willow gave Giles a withering look. "Well, some of us were…"

Giles cleared his throat, a bit flustered. "I would have…"

Jenny stepped forward, her expression serious. "Where's Angel?"

Buffy's face tightened, her voice a bit strained. "He didn't check in with you guys?"

Giles shook his head. "No…"

Cordelia stepped closer, crossing her arms. "What happened?"

Giles asked, "Is the Judge...?"

"No assembly required," Buffy said, her tone somber. "He's active."

"Damn it," Giles muttered under his breath, his brow furrowing.

Buffy's voice softened as she recounted, "He nearly killed us. Angel got us out."

Giles looked at her, worry etched across his face. "Why didn't you call? We thought…"

"We had to hide," Buffy explained, her gaze drifting. "We were stuck in the sewer tunnels... and with the hiding... we split up. Nobody's heard from him?"

Willow's face fell, but she tried to reassure her friend. "No... but I'm sure he'll come by."

Buffy nodded slowly, though her worry was clear. "You're right. I'm sure."

Giles placed a hand on her shoulder, his tone gentle but firm. "Buffy, the Judge. We have to stop him."

Buffy nodded, steeling herself. "I know."

Giles's eyes narrowed in thought. "What can you tell us?"

Buffy exhaled, recalling the encounter. "Not much. I just touched him, kicked him—and it was like a sudden fever. If he'd gotten his hands on me…"

Giles's expression grew darker. "In time, he won't have to. The stronger he gets... he'll be able to burn us all with a look."

Buffy let out a tense laugh. "Also, not the prettiest man in town."

"I'll just have to keep researching, look for a weakness." Giles's voice carried a note of resolve. "You all should get to your classes."

Reluctantly, the group began to file out.

Jenny lingered by Giles, nodding in support. "I better go too. I'll check the net, and see if I can find anything on the Judge."

"Thank you," Giles replied, his gratitude sincere.

Xander looked back, determination still blazing in his eyes. "We'll stop in after classes to help you research."

Cordelia rolled her eyes, giving Xander a withering look. "Yeah, you might find something useful if it's in an I-Can-Read book."

Brenwyn stepped forward, her gaze steady as she addressed Cordelia with a calm but pointed tone. "You know, Cordelia," she began, her voice calm but tinged with hurt, "I really thought we were starting to be friends. I mean, you've been showing up, helping out… I actually thought you were letting go of that awful mean girl persona you hide behind."

Cordelia froze, caught off guard by Brenwyn's words.

"But I'm not interested in being friends with someone who tears other people down, especially when they're doing their best to help." Brenwyn's voice softened, but her gaze remained steady. "Xander might not be perfect, but he's loyal and brave, and I respect that more than someone who just... makes herself feel better by acting like a bully."

Cordelia's expression faltered, a flicker of guilt flashing across her face as she glanced down, suddenly unable to meet Brenwyn's eyes.

The silence was heavy, with Willow and Buffy both watching the exchange intently. Xander looked at Brenwyn with surprise and admiration, clearly moved by her words.

Cordelia hesitated, her usual bravado momentarily shaken. She glanced around, noticing the approving looks from Willow, Buffy, and even Giles. For once, she seemed unsure of what to say, and her usual snappy comeback was nowhere to be found. With a small scoff, she rolled her eyes and turned, muttering something under her breath as she made her way out of the library.

Xander watched her go, then looked back at Brenwyn, his eyes wide with gratitude. "You're incredible, you know that?" he said softly, a small, appreciative smile tugging at his lips.

Brenwyn shrugged, her expression warm yet resolute. "It just needed to be said. We're all in this together, and no one should feel like they're less than anyone else. Especially not you, Xander."

Sunnydale High - History Class

Buffy sat near the back of the classroom, gazing absently out the window as sunlight streamed through the glass, casting a soft glow on her face. Her fingers fidgeted on her desk, tapping a steady, restless rhythm as she glanced from her hands to the ticking clock on the wall. Despite the history lesson unfolding around her, her mind was elsewhere, her eyes distant and unfocused.

The teacher's voice droned on, filling the room with an endless flow of facts. "Now, who can tell me the primary differences between the Bolsheviks and the Mensheviks? What truly set them apart?"

His gaze landed on Buffy, whose eyes snapped back to the present for a brief moment. She held his stare but didn't respond. Instead, Buffy rose from her seat, her movements slow and deliberate, as though she were being pulled by an unseen force. Without a word, she walked toward the door.

"Miss Summers," the teacher called, his voice sharp with irritation, "do you have somewhere important to be?"

Buffy didn't answer. She didn't even seem to hear him. Her footsteps carried her out of the classroom, leaving a faint ripple of whispers and curious glances in her wake.

Willow, Brenwyn, and Xander exchanged looks, each mirroring the other's puzzled expression as they watched her slip down the hallway and out of sight.

Sunnydale High - The Library

The library was steeped in evening quiet, punctuated only by the soft rustling of pages and whispered conversations. Brenwyn wandered through the aisles, a heavy, leather-bound book in hand, her gaze shifting thoughtfully from one tome to the next. Giles sat in his office, absorbed in a thick volume, while Willow stood by the counter, cradling the phone to her ear, her voice low and urgent. Xander and Cordelia, seated nearby, glanced up occasionally from their books, clearly more interested in Willow's conversation than their reading material.

"Okay... No, he didn't," Willow's voice came, tense but soothing. "But I'm sure he's got some plan, Buffy. He's probably just trying to protect you... No, I don't know what kind of plan. I'm not in on it, it's his plan..." Willow paused, her expression tightening. "No, don't even say that. Angel is not dead. Okay… Yeah, we'll be here. Of course. Bye."

She hung up, exhaling slowly, worry etched across her face.

Xander looked up, eyebrows raised. "What's the word?"

Willow ran a hand over her forehead, her voice shaky. "She checked every place she could think of. Even roughed up Willy the Snitch a couple of times. But Angel's... vanished."

Giles glanced up from his book, adjusting his glasses. "He does tend to disappear now and then, doesn't he?"

Willow shook her head. "Yeah, but she's really wigged out this time. I guess because of her dreams. God, what if something did happen to him?"

Giles gave a reassuring nod. "Is she planning to meet us here?"

Willow's fingers fidgeted with the edge of her book. "Yeah. She's just stopping at home first."

As Willow returned to her reading, Xander closed his book with a heavy sigh. "Nada," he muttered, pushing back from the table and heading into the stacks.

As the vision dissolved, Brenwyn's eyes fluttered open, her breaths shallow and rapid as she stared up at Xander, who still held her, his expression a mixture of worry and confusion. She reached up, clutching his arm for support as she struggled to gather her bearings.

"Brenwyn?" Xander whispered, his voice barely concealing the tremor beneath. "What did you see?"

Brenwyn's face paled, her gaze distant as the terrifying images lingered. She swallowed, her voice trembling. "It was Angel. He… he's different. Not himself. The Judge… he touched him, but it didn't work. He said Angel was 'clean'—no humanity in him." She looked up at Xander, horror etched in her features. "It's like he's lost his soul."

The gravity of her words hung heavy between them, and Xander's face went from puzzled to stricken. He opened his mouth to respond but seemed at a loss, struggling to process what she was saying. Brenwyn clutched his hand tightly, as though anchoring herself in reality.

"We have to tell Buffy," she said, her voice a mix of urgency and sorrow. "She's out there looking for him… she doesn't know."

Xander nodded, his jaw clenched with determination. "Come on," he said, helping her to her feet. "We're not letting her go through this alone."

Brenwyn leaned heavily on Xander as they emerged from behind the stacks, her face pale and her expression haunted. The others—Willow, Cordelia, and Giles—looked up, alarmed by the shock that seemed etched into both their faces.

"Brenwyn, are you alright?" Willow asked, her voice soft with concern as she took a step closer.

Giles's gaze sharpened. "Did you have another vision?"

Brenwyn nodded, taking a deep breath to steady herself. Her voice wavered as she began. "I saw Angel… and Spike, and Drusilla… but something was wrong. Really wrong." She swallowed, her voice dropping to a haunted whisper. "The Judge tried to burn away Angel's humanity. But… it didn't work. He couldn't because… because there's nothing human left in him. It's like he's lost his soul."

The words settled over the group, heavy and dreadful. Willow's hand flew to her mouth, eyes wide with shock and sorrow. "Angel… without his soul?" she whispered, almost afraid to believe it.

Cordelia's usual aloofness fell away, replaced by genuine alarm. "Wait, you mean Angel is… evil now?"

Giles's face darkened with understanding as he adjusted his glasses, the pieces clicking into place. "If Angel has indeed lost his soul, he'd revert to the vampire he once was—Angelus. A creature of unimaginable cruelty." He looked around at them, his tone grave. "We have to find Buffy. She has no idea what she's up against now."

Xander clenched his fists, worry etched into his face. "Buffy's out there looking for him, thinking he's in trouble. She'll go right to him."

Angel's Apartment

Buffy slipped into Angel's dimly lit apartment, her heart racing as she caught sight of the bed, still rumpled from the night before. She let out a relieved breath when she saw Angel stepping up behind her, his face shadowed in the low light.

"Angel!" she exclaimed, her voice a mixture of relief and worry.

"Hey," he replied, his tone casual, almost distant.

"Oh, God, I was so worried…" Her voice softened, the weight of the day finally catching up to her.

Angel shrugged nonchalantly. "Didn't mean to frighten you."

Buffy's brow furrowed. "Where did you go?" she asked, the tension of the past few hours creeping into her words.

"Been around." He turned, grabbing his shirt from the bed.

"I was freaking out," she continued, a hint of desperation in her voice. "You just disappeared…"

"What?" he scoffed, slipping into his shirt. "I took off."

Buffy's expression fell. "You didn't even say anything. You just left."

He rolled his eyes dismissively. "Yeah, like I really wanted to stick around after that."

Buffy froze, his words like ice in her veins. "After… what? What do you mean?"

Angel gave her a cool, detached look. "You've got a lot to learn about men, kiddo. I guess you proved that last night."

Buffy stared at him, utterly lost, her heart thudding painfully. "What are you saying?"

"Let's not make an issue out of it," he said, his tone flat. "In fact, let's not talk about it at all. It happened."

Buffy felt the room spin. "I don't understand. Was I… was it… not good?"

Her voice wavered, barely a whisper, but he only laughed, a dark, hollow sound that twisted the knife deeper.

"No, you were great! Really," he said with a smirk. "I thought you were a pro."

The words hit her like a punch, the cruel edge of them making her recoil.

"God, Angel," she choked, her voice breaking, "how can you say those things to me?"

He shrugged, a smug grin playing at his lips. "Lighten up. It was a good time. Doesn't mean we have to make a big deal."

"It is a big deal!" she cried, her voice cracking under the weight of her hurt.

"Is it, though?" he mocked. "Fireworks, bells ringing, a dulcet choir of pretty little birdies? Come on, Buffy, it's not like I've never been there before."

He reached out to place a hand on her shoulder, but she jerked away, her face twisted in pain and betrayal. "Get away from me."

A smirk flickered across his face as he shrugged. "I should have known you wouldn't be able to handle it."

With that, he turned, moving toward the door. Buffy's hand shot out, her voice trembling with a last plea. "Angel… I love you."

He paused, casting a glib look over his shoulder, his eyes cold and unfeeling.

"Love ya too," he said with a wink. "I'll call ya."

Then he was gone, the door clicking shut behind him. Buffy stood motionless, her world shattered, her heart broken. She felt the silence close in around her, an ache settling in her chest as she struggled to hold back the tears that threatened to spill.

Sunnydale High - The Library

Back at the library, a tense silence filled the room as Willow hung up the phone, worry creasing her brow.

"Nothing," she whispered. "No one's answering at Buffy's."

Giles frowned, exchanging a worried glance with Xander. "We need to find her."

They moved swiftly toward the library doors, pushing them open and stepping into the hallway, their footsteps echoing through the quiet corridors. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the shadows, blocking their path: Angel. He wore a smirk, his eyes gleaming with a strange, predatory light.

"Looking for someone?" he drawled, his tone mocking.

Jenny approached from behind, brandishing a silver cross. She held it up in front of her, stepping cautiously toward him. "Stay back," she warned, her voice steady despite the fear flickering in her eyes.

But Angel only laughed, sidestepping her and lunging forward to seize Willow, pulling her close as a shield. Willow's breath hitched, her terrified gaze fixed on his face.

Xander took a step forward, fists clenched. "Don't you do that…"

Angel tightened his grip, a cruel smile twisting his lips. "Oh, I think I do that."

Willow's voice trembled as she stared up at him, the familiar features of her friend twisted into something dark and unrecognizable. "Angel…"

Jenny's voice broke through the stifling tension. "He's not Angel anymore. Are you?"

Angel's smirk widened, his eyes gleaming with malice. "Wrong. I am Angel. Angelus. At last." He paused, shifting his gaze down the hall, his tone darkening. "I've got a message for Buffy."

A shadow detached itself from the corner, and Buffy stepped forward, her face pale but determined, her hands shaking as she met his gaze. "Then give it to me yourself."

Angel released Willow, pushing her roughly to the side, and turned to face Buffy, his expression almost gleeful. "Well, it's not really the kind of message you tell. It sort of involves finding the bodies of all your friends."

Buffy's voice trembled, her heart breaking as she looked at him. "This… this can't be you…"

Angel rolled his eyes, clearly relishing her pain. "We already covered that subject."

Slowly, Xander edged closer, taking the cross from Jenny's hand, moving with measured steps behind Angel, preparing his moment.

Buffy took a step closer, searching his face, desperate. "Angel… there must be some part of you inside that remembers who you are."

He scoffed, a mocking glint in his eyes. "Dream on, schoolgirl. Your boyfriend is dead. And soon, you'll all be joining him."

Buffy's hands clenched, her voice pleading. "Just leave Willow alone. Deal with me."

Angel's gaze slid over to Willow, a cruel smile twisting his lips. "But she's so cute and helpless. It's really a turn-on."

In one swift move, Xander reached around and shoved the cross in Angel's face. Angel roared, releasing Willow as he stumbled back, clutching his face where the cross had burned him. In a flash of anger, he turned, striking Xander hard, sending him sprawling onto the ground.

Buffy sprang forward, but Angel was already on her, his hands gripping her shoulders as he forced her to look at him. "Things are about to get very interesting," he whispered, his voice a chilling promise.

Just then, Brenwyn stepped forward, her eyes fierce. Her voice was clear and steady, every word laced with a power that hummed in the air. "Glaoim ar Brigid, bandia na cosanta agus na heagna. Sciath linn. Caith uait an dorchadas seo (I call upon Brigid, the goddess of protection and wisdom. Shield us. Cast away this darkness.)."

A wave of energy erupted from Brenwyn, striking Angel with a blinding flash of light. With a furious snarl, he stumbled back, his face contorted in rage as he turned and fled, his footsteps echoing down the hall until silence settled once more.

As the light faded, Buffy collapsed onto the ground, her face blank with shock. The others gathered around her, concern etched in their expressions.

"Buffy, are you okay?" Xander's voice was soft, filled with worry.

Willow knelt beside her, her hand resting on Buffy's shoulder. "Buffy?"

But Buffy's gaze remained fixed on the hallway, her eyes distant, her lips parted as if to speak. The weight of what she had seen - what she had lost - settled heavily around her, and for a moment, it seemed as though she might never find her voice again.

The group gathered back in the library, each of them visibly shaken and trying to process the night's events. Cordelia's voice cut through the tense silence, her words tinged with panic.

"What are we gonna do?" she asked, her eyes darting around.

Giles sighed heavily, a weariness weighing down his usually steady demeanor. "I'm leaning toward blind panic, myself."

"Rupert," Jenny interjected, her tone firm. "Don't talk like that. The kids need us to stay calm."

Giles looked around, his gaze somber as he took in each worried face. "I'm sorry," he admitted. "Things are bad enough with the Judge here. But Angel… crossing to the other side… I just wasn't prepared to deal with that."

"None of us were," Jenny murmured, her expression troubled.

Buffy sat apart from the group, staring blankly at the floor. Her shoulders were slumped, and the anguish in her eyes was unmistakable. Willow approached her gently, concern etched deeply into her face.

"Are you okay?" Willow asked softly.

Buffy shook her head, her voice barely above a whisper. "No."

Willow's heart ached at the sight of her friend's despair. "Is there anything I can do?"

Buffy looked away, her voice strained. "I should have known. I saw him… at home, and he was… different. The things he said…"

Giles approached, his tone gentle yet curious. "What things?"

Buffy's expression tightened, her pain evident. "It's private."

"But you didn't know he had turned bad," Jenny said, trying to offer some comfort.

Willow's gaze shifted to Jenny, a hint of suspicion creeping in. "How did you know?" she asked pointedly.

Jenny hesitated, caught off guard. "What?"

"You knew," Willow pressed. "You said he wasn't Angel."

Jenny looked down, flustered. "Well, I… I saw his face," she said, attempting to brush it off.

Before Willow could dwell on Jenny's response, Giles spoke up, his mind racing with possibilities. "If we only knew how it happened…"

Buffy's gaze lifted, wary. "What do you mean?"

"Well," Giles explained, "something must have triggered his transformation. Some… event."

The realization hit Buffy like a physical blow. Their night together. That must have been what caused him to lose his soul.

Giles continued, oblivious to her turmoil. "If anyone would know, Buffy, it should be you. Did anything happen last night that might—"

"Giles, please," she interrupted, her voice thick with emotion. "I… I can't. Not now." She rose abruptly, the anguish on her face plain as she hurried out of the library.

"Buffy, I'm sorry, but we can't afford to—" Giles called after her, but Willow's voice, calm and resolute, stopped him.

"Giles, shut up."

Everyone fell silent, watching Buffy's retreating figure as she disappeared down the hall, her pain casting a heavy shadow over the room.

Cordelia crossed her arms, her voice laced with frustration. "This is just great. There's an unkillable demon in town, Angel's joined his team, and the Slayer's a basket case. I'd say we've hit rock bottom."

Xander straightened, his expression determined. "I have a plan."

Cordelia rolled her eyes, unimpressed. "Oh, no, here's a lower place."

Ignoring her sarcasm, Xander continued, "I don't know what's up with Angel, but I might have a way to deal with this Judge guy."

Brenwyn's eyes lit up with a spark of hope. "What do we do?"

Xander looked around, weighing his options. "I'm gonna need… I think I'm gonna need Cordelia on this one."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Brenwyn's face, but she remained silent, listening intently.

"And we'll need wheels," Xander added.

Cordelia raised an eyebrow. "Well, my car—"

Xander shook his head. "It might need to be bigger."

Willow, her eyes steely with resolve, stepped in. "No problem. I'll get Oz. He has a van."

Xander nodded, satisfied. "Good. Okay."

Cordelia crossed her arms, clearly irritated. "Care to let me in on the plan that I'm apparently a part of?"

Xander smirked. "No."

"Why not?" she demanded.

"Because if I tell you what it is, you won't do it." He flashed her a grin. "Just meet me at Willow's in half an hour. And wear something trashy… er."

Giles turned to the others, a flicker of concern still in his gaze. "I'm not sure what we should do about Buffy."

Jenny glanced down the empty hallway. "Assuming they don't attack tonight, I think we should let her be."

Willow nodded. "I agree."

Giles looked down, his voice softening. "I can't imagine what she's going through right now."

Brenwyn shook her head, her expression filled with empathy. "I don't think any of us can."

The Summers' Residence - Buffy's Room

Buffy slipped into her room, closing the door behind her with a quiet, steadying breath. She leaned against it, staring into the dim space as though willing herself to hold together. Her gaze fell on her dresser, where the cross Angel had given her last year hung over the mirror. She moved toward it slowly, almost hypnotized, her hand lifting to brush against the cool metal before her reflection caught her eye. She met her gaze, her face pale and strained, a faint tremor creeping into her shoulders as she looked down at her hand, noticing the Claddagh ring on her finger.

With a sharp intake of breath, she pulled it off, the cool band slipping free from her finger before she let it fall to the floor. It landed with a faint clink, and in that instant, her fragile composure broke. Tears filled her eyes, spilling over as she stumbled to her bed, sinking onto it as her hands clutched the sheets. She curled up, drew her knees close, and finally gave in to the sobs that wracked her.

In her sleep, a dream took hold, immersing her in images that felt too real, too close. She was back in Angel's apartment, fragments of their time together flashing before her: her hand sliding over his back, his face nuzzling into her neck, her own eyes fluttering open with a mix of wonder and vulnerability.

"I love you…" Angel's voice echoed, warm and filled with devotion, but the image abruptly shifted. His face transformed, his eyes cruel and hungry, baring his fangs in a feral snarl that roared into her face. Buffy recoiled, and the scene vanished, morphing into a different setting: a graveyard in Sunnydale.

Buffy stood by Angel's grave, the sunlight casting her shadow long against the green grass. A sense of foreboding settled over her as she noticed a figure to her right, a woman clad in black with a veil that obscured her face. Buffy turned toward the woman, her heart pounding. As the woman lifted her veil, Jenny's familiar face appeared, her expression distant, looking straight ahead as though unaware of Buffy's presence.

Buffy looked back at Angel's grave, her mind racing, but now Angel himself was standing by the headstone, illuminated by the soft, unnatural daylight. His gaze was calm, his voice holding an almost cryptic reassurance.

"You have to know what to see," he murmured, his tone serene and steady.

Buffy turned once more to where Jenny had stood, but the vision faded. She was alone, left with Angel's parting words, echoing in her mind as she drifted, uncertain and haunted, through the fragile depths of her sleep.

Sunnydale High - Jenny Calendar's Classroom

The computer lab was quiet, a soft hum filling the air as a handful of students typed away on their computers. At the front of the room, Jenny spoke in low tones with Giles, her face tense. The door swung open, and Buffy strode in, her expression dark and unyielding. Without a word, she crossed the room, her eyes fixed on Jenny.

In one swift motion, Buffy grabbed Jenny by the neck, slamming her down onto the desk. The impact sent pencils and disks scattering. The students looked up, shocked, some standing in alarm. Giles reached for Buffy, trying to pull her away, but she shoved him back without even glancing at him.

"Buffy!" Giles shouted, panic and disbelief in his voice.

Buffy ignored him, her grip tight on Jenny's throat, her voice a low and dangerous growl. "What do you know?"

Jenny's eyes were wide, fear flickering across her face as she struggled for breath.

Giles scrambled back to his feet, coming forward again. "Buffy, stop it!"

Buffy released her grip, and Jenny gasped, drawing in a shaky breath as she sat up. A student nearby hesitated, looking from Jenny to Giles. "Should I get the principal?"

Giles shook his head, still visibly shaken. "I'll handle this. You're all dismissed."

The students filed out slowly, glancing back at the tense scene unfolding. Buffy's gaze never left Jenny.

"Did you do it?" Buffy demanded, her voice trembling with restrained fury. "Did you change him?"

"For God's sake, calm down!" Giles urged, stepping between them, but Buffy brushed past him, her focus unwavering.

Jenny's shoulders sagged, her expression heavy with regret. "I didn't know… exactly," she whispered.

Giles turned, his eyes widening in disbelief as he looked at Jenny. She kept her gaze lowered, unable to meet their eyes as she continued.

"I was told… I was sent here to watch you both. They told me to keep you and Angel apart, but they never said what would happen," she explained, her voice barely audible. "I'm sorry, Rupert. Angel was supposed to pay for what he did to my people."

Buffy's eyes were hard, her voice a bitter whisper. "And me? What was I supposed to be paying for?"

Jenny's face softened, guilt clouding her expression. "I didn't know what would happen until after. I swear, I would have told you…"

Buffy's face paled, the weight of realization hitting her. "So it was me. I did it."

Jenny swallowed, her voice faltering. "I think so… if you…"

Giles looked between them, his confusion giving way to horror. "I don't understand."

"The curse," Jenny explained, her voice thick with sorrow. "If Angel achieved true happiness, even for a moment… he would lose his soul."

Giles blinked, comprehension dawning. His face fell as he realized the full implication. Buffy nodded, her expression pained, confirming his unspoken thoughts. An uncomfortable silence settled over them.

Jenny's voice broke the quiet, raw and filled with remorse. "If I could do anything to help—"

"Curse him again," Buffy interrupted, a desperate edge in her voice. "Can't you do that?"

Jenny shook her head slowly. "Those magicks are long lost, even to my people."

Buffy's face twisted in frustration, hope flickering only to be extinguished. "But you did it once… maybe it's not too late to save him."

"It can't be done," Jenny murmured, her gaze filled with helplessness. "I can't help you."

Buffy's jaw tightened, determination gleaming through her despair. "Then take me to someone who can."

Sunnydale - An Army Base

The night was thick and silent around the army base, the distant hum of machinery the only sound breaking the stillness. Oz's van rolled to a stop by the towering stone wall, his headlights dimmed. The building loomed above, dark and imposing, with a small high window glinting in the faint moonlight. Oz leaned against the wheel, a slight nod exchanged with Willow in the passenger seat.

With a low slide, the van door opened, and Xander and Cordelia stepped out. Cordelia's usual polished look was traded for something simpler, less noticeable, while Xander sported a tight Hawaiian shirt and neatly combed hair, looking almost out of place. He stepped up to Oz's window, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Wait here. When you hear that window open, get the ladder, climb up, and we'll pass you the package. Okay?"

Oz's gaze was steady. "Okay."

Willow leaned over, her voice filled with concern. "Be careful."

Xander flashed her a reassuring grin, then turned, leading Cordelia toward the fence bordering the armory. They moved quickly, slipping through a gap in the cyclone fence running alongside the building, hugging the shadows as they approached the armory's long, unadorned wall. Xander chuckled under his breath. "Security here is a joke. I really should report it."

Cordelia rolled her eyes. "And who exactly are we supposed to be again?"

He glanced over, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. "You're supposed to be a girl. Think you can handle it?"

A couple of soldiers passed them, nodding as Xander offered them a casual salute. He matched their pace until they rounded the corner, nearing the armory door.

"Halt!" a firm voice barked from the shadows. A guard emerged, not huge, but with a steely gaze that made Xander pause. Xander straightened, trying to keep his voice steady and his face calm.

"Private Harris, with the... uh, 33rd," he said, his tone confident.

The guard's eyes narrowed. "33rd are on maneuvers."

Xander's mind raced, and he cleared his throat. "Right. And I'm on leave. From them."

The guard's expression didn't soften. "You always spend your leave sneaking into the armory, buddy? And who's she?"

Cordelia gave a half-smile, shrugging. "Hi. I'm not a soldier." She threw Xander a questioning glance. "Right?"

Thinking fast, Xander pulled the guard aside. "Look, man, I just want to give her the tour, you know? The ladies... they love to see the big guns. Gets 'em all... you know, hot and bothered." He shrugged, trying to look conspiratorial. "Cut me some slack?"

The guard raised an eyebrow, still skeptical. "And why should I?"

Xander's gaze flickered down, a sly smile spreading over his face as he noted the guard's gear. "Well, if you do, I won't tell Colonel Newsome that your shoes aren't regulation, your oak leaves are on backward, and... you hold your gun like a sissy."

Without waiting for permission, he adjusted the gun in the guard's hands, demonstrating a more secure grip. Slowly, the guard's eyes softened, and a reluctant smile broke through his frown.

"You've got twenty minutes, nimrod," he muttered, stepping back.

Xander gave a nod, and he and Cordelia quickly slipped inside. The quiet hum of machinery surrounded them as they entered the armory, its sterile walls lined with equipment.

Cordelia glanced at Xander, still astonished. "Okay, what was that? And also… who are you?"

He grinned, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Remember Halloween? When I got turned into a soldier?"

"Yeah..."

"I still remember all of it. Procedures, ordinances, access codes, everything. I know this place's whole layout, and I'm pretty sure I could put together an M16 in fifty-seven seconds."

Cordelia raised her eyebrows, clearly impressed despite herself. "Well, that's... actually useful." She gave the room a wary glance. "Now let's find this thing and get out of here."

Gypsy's Residence

The dimly lit room was heavy with silence as Buffy, Giles, and Jenny stepped inside, the air thick with a palpable sense of dread. Jenny stopped in her tracks, her hand flying up to cover her mouth, eyes wide with horror. Buffy's gaze fell to the lifeless body sprawled on the floor, her face a mask of grim determination, though her eyes betrayed a flicker of sorrow. Then her gaze drifted to the wall, where a chilling message was scrawled in blood: WAS IT GOOD FOR YOU TOO?

Jenny's voice was barely a whisper. "God…"

Giles's face hardened as he took in the scene, a mixture of sadness and resolve in his eyes. "Buffy, he's doing this deliberately. He wants to make this as painful as possible for you."

Buffy's expression turned steely, her voice low but unshakable. "He's just making it easier."

Giles looked at her, searching her face. "What do you mean?"

Buffy met his gaze, summoning every ounce of her resolve. "I know what I have to do," she said, her voice unyielding. "Kill him."

Sunnydale High - The Library

Night settled heavily over the dimly lit room, casting long shadows across Giles' cluttered workspace. The quiet crackle of anticipation filled the air as Xander and Oz carefully placed a long, oblong wooden crate on Giles' desk. A faint smell of wood and metal lingered from the aged crate, suggesting secrets hidden within. Behind them, Willow, Brenwyn, and Cordelia worked with silent precision, loading stakes, crossbows, and holy water vials into a well-worn gym bag, their movements quick and assured, hardened by countless nights of preparation for battle.

Xander grinned as he nodded to Buffy. "Happy Birthday, Buffy. Hope you like the color."

Buffy smirked, her gaze locked on the crate. Her voice was steady and resolute. "Giles, we'll hit the factory first, but we may not find them. If they're on the offensive, we need to figure out where they'll go next."

Giles nodded, his face grim with concentration. "Agreed." Bracing the crowbar in his hands, he leaned into the crate, prying the lid open with a solid crack. Just as the top splintered free, Jenny Calendar appeared in the doorway, her hesitant footsteps barely a whisper on the hardwood floor. She lingered on the threshold, her expression one of trepidation and sorrow as she looked toward Buffy.

Buffy's focus remained unwavering, her voice hard as she spoke, never turning to acknowledge Jenny. "This is good."

Jenny swallowed, a slight tremor in her voice as she offered, "Do you... is there something I can do to—"

Buffy's tone was ice. "Get out."

The words hung in the air, thick with tension. Everyone shifted uncomfortably, their eyes flicking between Buffy and Jenny, caught in the uneasy silence. Jenny's face fell as she glanced over at Giles, hoping for some form of reprieve, some gentleness from him. But his face was a mask of quiet resignation. No anger, no joy, only the finality of his decision.

"She said get out," he said softly, yet his tone left no room for argument.

Jenny's face crumpled slightly as she slowly turned and left, the door closing with a soft, hollow thud behind her. The silence deepened, lingering like a shadow in her absence. After a moment, Xander turned to Buffy, his tone attempting to lighten the room's oppressive weight.

"Do you want me to show you how to use it?"

Buffy's response was brisk, her tone hardened by resolve. "Yes. I do."

Sunnydale - An Abandoned Factory

Buffy and Giles stepped into the dark, empty space of the factory, their cautious footsteps echoing against the walls. The others hovered by the entrance, tense and alert. Buffy's eyes scanned the barren room, a grim certainty settling over her face. "I knew it," she murmured.

Giles sighed, his brow creased with worry. "And we haven't a clue where they'd go?"

Buffy shook her head. "Somewhere crowded. The Judge is gonna need bodies."

From the doorway, Willow spoke up, a note of concern in her voice. "The Bronze?"

"It's closed tonight," Xander replied.

Cordelia crossed her arms, glancing around skeptically. "There's not a lot of choices in Sunnydale. It's not like people are gonna line up to get massacred."

Oz's expression shifted, an idea dawning. "Uh, guys? If I was gonna line up, I know where I'd be."

Sunnydale Mall

The multiplex mall was bustling with life. Inside, people lined up along a grand, arched hallway, waiting eagerly for the latest films. At one end, a domed room showcased a large concession stand, glowing under the warm lights. Opposite, the open mall balcony overlooked the scene below, facing the concession area. Shoppers drifted between stores, buying tickets and snacks, utterly oblivious to the approaching danger.

The doors on the balcony level swung open, and the Judge strode in with an imposing presence, flanked by Drusilla and Angel, a host of vampires trailing behind. Nearby, a businessman, focused on his phone, strolled past, oblivious. The Judge extended his hand, gesturing toward the man without touching him. Instantly, the businessman's body stiffened, trembling as he burned from within and dropped lifeless to the floor.

Angel smirked. "Lock the exits, boys."

The vampires scattered, securing the area, as Angel turned to the Judge. "It's all yours."

At another entrance, Buffy and her friends burst into the mall, purpose etched into their faces. Xander and Giles hefted a wooden box between them by its rope handles as Buffy barked orders.

"Everybody keeps back. Damage control only. Take out any lesser vamps if you can. I'll handle the smurf."

On the balcony, the Judge moved to the center, spreading his arms wide as he gazed down on the oblivious crowd below. He reached out, fingers crackling with dark energy, connecting with two unsuspecting people on either staircase. Their bodies began to burn, eyes wide with horror, and the deadly energy leaped from them to others, spreading like a web through the crowd. Scores of people were caught in the destructive glow, their forms trembling as the power surged through them.

"Oh, goodie!" Drusilla squealed, clapping her hands in twisted delight.

Suddenly, an arrow whizzed through the air, embedding itself into the Judge's chest. He stumbled, his energy cut off, and the web of destruction dissipated, leaving his victims shaken but alive. Seething, the Judge ripped the arrow from his chest, eyes narrowing.

"Who dares…?"

Buffy stood atop the popcorn machine, a crossbow in hand, her gaze cold and unflinching. "I think I got his attention…"

The Judge spotted her, tossing the arrow aside as he took a menacing step forward. "You are a fool. No weapon forged can stop me."

Buffy let the crossbow clatter to the floor and raised a new weapon, hefting a massive rocket launcher that Xander had procured for her.

"That was then," she declared, a defiant spark in her eyes. "This is now."

In an instant, chaos erupted. Drusilla and Angel's eyes widened in horror as they dove out of the way. Buffy took careful aim, flicking the switch on the rocket launcher, and the Judge barely had a moment to react, his face twisted in confusion.

"What's that do?" he muttered, just as the rocket streaked across the mall, high above the heads of terrified bystanders.

With a thunderous blast, the rocket collided with the Judge, igniting a shockwave that echoed through the mall. Smoke and debris filled the air, small fires igniting where he'd stood moments before. Drusilla whimpered, shaken and pelted by debris, then hastily retreated, her vampire minions scurrying after her. As the smoke began to clear, Buffy descended from the concession stand, tossing the spent launcher to Xander with a satisfied smile.

"Best present ever."

Xander grinned. "Knew you'd like it."

Willow surveyed the wreckage with wide eyes. "Do you think he's dead?"

Buffy's gaze stayed sharp as she scanned the area. "You guys pick up the pieces. Keep 'em separate."

Cordelia's groan of dismay cut through the tension. "Pieces? We're getting pieces? Our job sucks!"

Just as they began to fan out, Buffy's eyes caught a familiar figure slipping through the fleeing crowd. Off to the right, Angel ducked around a corner, a cruel smile flickering across his face. Without hesitation, Buffy followed, her every nerve on edge as the sprinklers, triggered by the explosion, sprayed water down around her.

Buffy made her way cautiously down a soaked mall hallway, her footsteps echoing on the wet tiles. Turning a corner, she paused, senses alert, when she was suddenly struck with a brutal fist that sent her sprawling to the ground. She looked up, and there stood Angel, smirking.

"You know what the worst part was?" he taunted, his tone dripping with malice. "Pretending I loved you. If I'd known how easily you'd give it up, I wouldn't have bothered."

Buffy rose slowly, her expression steeled with rage. "That doesn't work anymore. You're not Angel."

He tilted his head, mockingly. "You'd like to think that, wouldn't you? Doesn't matter. The important thing is, you made me the man I am today."

She launched at him, and they traded fierce blows, each punch a surge of anger and pain. Angel gained the upper hand, pushing her back toward a glass counter. She hesitated, breathless and visibly shaken as he beckoned her forward with a twisted grin.

"Not quitting on me already, are you? Come on, Buffy. You know you want it."

Without warning, Buffy drove her fist into his stomach, causing him to double over. Seizing the opportunity, she grabbed his head and smashed it through the glass counter, shattering the pastry display. She didn't let up, pulling him back only to drive his head through the top of the case, her fury exploding in a storm of blows. Blood smeared his face as he staggered back, yet his gaze remained defiant. Buffy's hand slipped into her pocket, pulling out a stake. She raised it, ready to end it.

But as her eyes locked with his, her hand trembled, her resolve faltering. Pain crossed her face, and, after a moment, she let the stake drop to the floor. Angel's bloodied face twisted into a smug smile.

"You can't do it. You can't kill me."

Her response was swift. She kicked him, hard, right between the legs. He dropped to his knees, gasping in agony, unable to even scream. She turned, sparing him one final glance.

"Give me time."

With that, Buffy strode away, leaving Angel crumpled in the artificial rain, his victorious smirk replaced with searing pain.